Colorado is no stranger to the military. From active bases to a large veteran population, many residents of the state have some kind of association with the armed services. This month for Western Skies, we’re exploring some of those relationships.

One of the biggest topics right now across the state is oil and gas development, specifically, hydraulic fracturing. Communities, industry, and the state are all working to ensure their interests are protected. But it’s a complicated issue, and often contentious. This month for Western Skies, we’re holding a magnifying glass up to fracking, the rules, regulations, and community concerns. (This month’s image by artist and rig-worker, Streeter Wright.)

It was Thomas Edison who said, “Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration.” Edison, of course, is one of the great American inventors. This month, we’re delving into that equation with a look at innovation.

December 9, 2016 | NPR · Two-thirds of Americans think Trump must avoid a conflict of interest, according to a Bloomberg poll. But only a slight majority are confident he’ll put the country’s interests ahead of his own.

December 9, 2016 | NPR · Mongolian goats produce the world’s highest quality cashmere wool, and international demand has soared. There’s a problem, though: these goats are turning the country into an ecological wasteland.

December 9, 2016 | NPR · A makeshift artist studio and living space in Baltimore was shut down Monday, a few days after a deadly California warehouse fire. The tenants are now left wondering where to go from here.

December 9, 2016 | NCPR · Residents of Seneca Falls, N.Y., are celebrating 70 years of Frank Capra’s classic Christmas film. The town claims architectural and geographic similarities, and a scouting trip by the director.